Don't shoot the messenger! The back to school ads and fliers have long-since hit your mailbox before we even mentioned it. Nevertheless, the kiddies are returning to school in a few short weeks and you want to get the shopping for all of the new fashion trends, gear and supplies over with. Instead of hitting the big box stores, why not try shopping at a few local spots? It's a great way to support small businesses on Long Island and still get everything you need for September.

And for other back to school inspiration, be sure to check out our After School Programs, Classes & Activities Guide for Long Island Kids.

While there are certainly plenty of wonderful beaches in New York City, none of them give you that total out-of-town feeling. Much as we love NYC in the summer, sometimes even we natives want to escape for a day trip to swim and sun on a more suburban shore.

Happily, neighboring New Jersey is home to lots of pristine beaches and swimming lakes, and some of the best ones are less than an hour by car from midtown Manhattan. And if you don't have access to a vehicle, a few are also accessible via public transportation.

To find the five most fun-filled NJ swimming spots, we turned to the experts: local parents Cheryl and William de Jong-Lambert, who regularly blog about their family excursions at the Appalachian Mountain Club's Kids Outdoors New York City, a FREE online community for families featuring alfresco activities in the NYC area. Remember, these beaches and lakes are only open for swimming through Labor Day, so start planning your city escape right away.

Bike riding is not only a fun activity that the entire family can do together, but it's also a great way to get everyone moving and enjoying the fresh air. The East End of Long Island has a few bike trails your clan can explore for a few hours or even a full day. So grab a water bottle, put on some sunscreen and start pedaling! And for more family-friendly activities, be sure to check out our Hamptons & North Fork Family Guide.

Imagine an overnight camping adventure without the worries of bugs and bad weather.  Our list of camp-in destinations offers memorable adventures that are sure to please the entire family.  From sleeping with sharks to bunking on a real battleship, these overnight getaways will create memories that will last a lifetime.  For even more nearby camp-in destinations, check out our post on Museum Sleepovers in Long Island.

Last month we told you about great places to play and learn tennis in lower Westchester. Now, we're back again with a round up of the best tennis centers in the upper part of the county! With the US Open quickly approaching, tennis is in the air and families and kids of all ages are getting out there and enjoying the game.

Westchester is home to some of the finest tennis establishments for private and group instruction, camps, parties and more. Read on for our picks of the top tennis facilities in upper Westchester. Looking for more ideas for fun this month? Check our our August Go List and SUMMER OF PLAY Guide. 

Are the dog days of August starting to wear you down? As much I love summery outdoor fun, there are days when I need a break from chasing sweaty kids, globbing on lotion and cleaning sand from the car. If you need an escape from the August heat or rain, chill out indoors at these fun, air-conditioned events and activities. If your budget’s tight after camp and summer vacation, don’t sweat it. Everything on this list is free! And for more ideas to finish off the summer, check out the New Jersey Kids Summer Activities Guide.